Preston Falls
A breathtaking 25m cascade in Tasmania's lush forests, offering serene walks and spectacular views, especially after rain.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waterfalls are most spectacular
Preston Falls
Best Time
Waterfalls are most spectacular
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 25m cascade in Tasmania's lush forests, offering serene walks and spectacular views, especially after rain.
"Spectacular! Well worth visiting for the roaring falls and peaceful forest walk."
🚗 Easy Access Parking
Limited parking is available right at the entrance. Arrive early for the best spot!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The path has timber and soil steps, so wear shoes with good grip. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Roaring Cascade
Main viewing platform
Witness the powerful 25-meter drop, especially impressive after rainfall. A true spectacle of nature's force.
Lush Forest Walk
Path from parking to lookout
Stroll through a serene, well-maintained forest path. The ambiance is peaceful and rejuvenating.
Cantilevered Lookout
At the end of the main trail
Enjoy stunning, unobstructed views of the falls from a sturdy metal grid lookout.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Accessibility and Trail Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Access Parking
Limited parking is available right at the entrance. Arrive early for the best spot!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The path has timber and soil steps, so wear shoes with good grip. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Best Photo Light
Avoid midday sun for better waterfall photos; late afternoon is ideal. :camerawithflash:
🌳 Embrace the Serenity
Enjoy the peaceful forest ambiance and the sounds of nature. :deciduous_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Access Parking
Limited parking is available right at the entrance. Arrive early for the best spot!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The path has timber and soil steps, so wear shoes with good grip. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Best Photo Light
Avoid midday sun for better waterfall photos; late afternoon is ideal. :camerawithflash:
🌳 Embrace the Serenity
Enjoy the peaceful forest ambiance and the sounds of nature. :deciduous_tree:
⚠️ Unmaintained Bottom Path
The walk to the bottom is not recommended or maintained. Stick to the official lookout.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Preston Falls for its spectacular beauty, especially after rain when the water flow is immense. The easy, well-maintained walk to the lookout is a significant plus, offering serene forest ambiance and stunning waterfall views. It's considered a peaceful, well-worthwhile stop for nature lovers.
"Preston Falls was spectacular. Because of all the recent rain, there was so much water coming over the falls, it was roaring. It is well worth visiting. Drive to the entrance, there is a parking bay at the road for a couple of cars. Access to the falls is via a path & timber & soil steps (of different sizes), there is a metal grid walking bridge. On the other side of the bridge, walk about 8 metres & there is a metal grid lookout. There is also a picnic table & seats near the bridge, looked like it hadn't been used for a while. We loved our afternoon here, it was beautiful & peaceful."
Kathy Thompson
"Really easy walk from the small carpark. Walk over a bridge and then out to the cantilever lookout. Not far at all, well worth stopping to look."
Donna Roberts
"So serene and peaceful. What amazing falls, walk, and nature at its best!
We had such a terrific time. What a treasure! Just beautiful! I am so blessed to have experienced walking through this forest."
Flower Power
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Preston Falls is located in Tasmania, Australia, near Gunns Plains and Ulverstone. It's a short drive from Devonport. Follow signs from Raymond Road. 
Yes, there's a small parking bay at the road entrance for a few cars. It's best to arrive early, especially if you want to be close to the trail.
Absolutely! Preston Falls is a perfect stop for a day trip in Tasmania, easily accessible and offering beautiful natural scenery.
Yes, Preston Falls is only about a 30-minute drive from Devonport, making it a convenient addition to your itinerary if you're camping or exploring the area.
The falls are near Gunns Plains and Ulverstone in Tasmania, making them easily accessible from these areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Preston Falls is a natural attraction and entry is free. You don't need to purchase any tickets to visit.
As a natural outdoor attraction, Preston Falls is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee for Preston Falls. It's a free natural attraction for everyone to enjoy.
While there aren't official tours specifically for Preston Falls, many local tour operators in Tasmania include it as part of broader North West Tasmania itineraries.
Yes, Preston Falls is a natural landmark and is open and accessible year-round. The experience may vary with seasons, especially after rain.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk to the main lookout is easy and short, featuring timber and soil steps and a metal grid bridge. It's well-maintained and takes only a few minutes. +1
Yes, there's a metal grid cantilevered lookout offering stunning, unobstructed views of the falls. +1
The main trail is easy and short, making it suitable for families. However, supervise children closely, especially near the lookout.
Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip due to the steps. Layers are advisable as Tasmanian weather can change. :athletic_shoe:
Swimming is generally not recommended or safe at the base of the falls due to the powerful water flow and rocky terrain.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
For the best waterfall photos, aim for late afternoon when the sun is softer and not directly on the falls, creating a more atmospheric shot.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire falls and surrounding forest. A tripod can help with longer exposures to smooth the water. :camerawithflash:
The main cantilevered lookout provides excellent, unobstructed views. Some visitors attempt to reach the bottom for different perspectives, but this is not recommended.
The mist can add a dramatic effect. Use a lens hood to minimize water droplets and consider a polarizing filter to enhance colors and reduce glare. :iphone:
Long exposures can create a silky smooth water effect. Use a tripod and a neutral density (ND) filter if shooting in brighter conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Stick to the main, well-maintained path and lookout. Ensure children are supervised at all times, especially near the viewing platform. Pack snacks and water, as amenities are limited. The peaceful forest setting also provides a lovely environment for a family picnic.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Photography advice: Aim for late afternoon for the best light. A tripod is highly recommended for capturing smooth water effects with longer exposures. Consider a wide-angle lens to encompass the falls and the surrounding lush forest. Be prepared for mist, which can add atmosphere but may require lens protection.
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Hikers
Nature lover tips: Take your time to soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Listen to the sounds of the forest and the waterfall. While the main trail is easy, be aware that venturing off-path is not recommended. It's a perfect spot for a quiet contemplation or a gentle stroll.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Preston Falls: Beyond the View
+1While the main attraction is the powerful cascade, the journey to the viewing platform is also a significant part of the experience. The well-maintained path winds through a serene forest, offering a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature. Visitors often describe the ambiance as tranquil and rejuvenating, making it a perfect spot for a quiet afternoon.
It's important to note that while the main trail is accessible and safe, any attempts to reach the bottom of the falls are not officially maintained and can be hazardous. The designated lookout provides the best and safest vantage point to appreciate the raw beauty of Preston Falls.
Best Times and Conditions for Visiting
For photography enthusiasts, the lighting conditions play a crucial role. Midday sun can create harsh shadows and overexposed highlights, diminishing the visual appeal of the falls. Instead, visiting in the late afternoon, when the sun is lower in the sky, provides softer, more diffused light. This allows for better detail capture and a more atmospheric portrayal of the falls and the surrounding forest.
While the falls are accessible year-round, the experience can vary. Spring and autumn might offer pleasant walking conditions and beautiful foliage, while winter could mean more dramatic water flow but potentially cooler weather. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit to ensure the best experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit